How Do You Spell TRANSKETOLASE?

1. Transketolase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, specifically in the pentose phosphate pathway. It catalyzes the transfer of a two-carbon ketol group from a ketose donor molecule to an aldose acceptor molecule, forming a different ketose and aldose. This enzymatic reaction allows for the interconversion of sugars with different numbers of carbon atoms.

   The activity of transketolase is essential for the production of key cellular molecules, including ribose-5-phosphate, which is a precursor for nucleotide synthesis and the formation of coenzymes like NADPH. NADPH is directly involved in multiple cellular processes, such as antioxidant defense, lipid and cholesterol synthesis, and detoxification reactions. Hence, transketolase has implications in a wide range of metabolic pathways.

   Deficiencies of transketolase can lead to impaired carbohydrate metabolism and disturbances in the pentose phosphate pathway, resulting in various health conditions. For instance, a deficiency in thiamine (vitamin B1), which serves as a cofactor for transketolase, can impair its activity and lead to the development of a condition called Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. This syndrome is characterized by neurological impairments, including confusion, memory loss, and coordination difficulties.

   Overall, transketolase plays a vital role in carbohydrate metabolism, energy production, and the production of key cellular components. Its activity is tightly regulated and crucial for maintaining normal cellular function.

Common Misspellings for TRANSKETOLASE

The word "transketolase" is derived from two components: "trans-" and "ketolase".

The prefix "trans-" is derived from the Latin word "trans", meaning "across" or "over". In scientific terminology, "trans" is used to indicate the configuration of a molecule in which certain functional groups are situated on opposite sides of a double bond.

The term "ketolase" is a combination of "keto-" and "-lase". "Keto-" is derived from the word "ketone", which refers to a functional group consisting of a carbon double-bonded to an oxygen atom (C=O). "-Lase" is a suffix commonly used in biochemistry to indicate an enzyme.

Therefore, "transketolase" can be understood as an enzyme that is involved in the transfer of a "trans" configuration of a functional group between ketone molecules.